Catholics invited to join Muslim fast

Earlier this week, Muslims around the world began their observance of Ramadan, a month of daily fasting from sunrise to sunset. Muslims are also asked to perform charitable works during the month, which runs from Oct. 27 to Nov. 23 this year.

To show solidarity with Muslims, members of two Catholic Worker houses -- Emmaus House in Albany and Rosa House in Troy -- have decided to fast with them.

"We are asking Catholics to fast for one day only from sunrise to sunset during the month of Ramadan," said Fred Boehrer, co-founder of Emmaus House. "It is our way of offering support and good will to our Muslim brothers and sisters. We are hoping to provide support during this time of war in Iraq and unsettled events throughout the world."

The goal is to have Catholics sign up to fast for one day each, so that Christian fasting and works of charity will cover the entire month. Mr. Boehrer pointed out that fasting is an important part of Catholic tradition.

"Jesus fasted in the desert, so did Dorothy Day [founder of Catholic Worker], as well as many of our saints," he noted. "We at the Catholic Worker feel that extending this solidarity with Muslim folks during their important month of prayer will only increase communication and understanding among us."

From the Islamic center in Colonie, Catholic Worker has obtained several prayers that are offered during Ramadan when breaking the daily fast at sunset.

"These prayers were translated into English, and we have them available for those that wish to participate," Mr. Boehrer said.

(To sign up for the fast, contact Emmaus House in Albany at 482-4966.)

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